Pioneer CT-A1
(1981 > 1984)

Among the top tape recorders in cassette format, the CT-A1 is, unfortunately... rare.
Closed-loop dual capstans, three S&F heads, Pioneer's staple Auto BLE system, high-torque coreless motors, PNP and NPN transistors for the audio stages, a 25dB higher than standard dynamic margin and more - the CT-A1 was a peak. At 18kg, it also was a load. Most of these features would be carried onto the top decks of the "Communication" series with large reductions in size, weight and... lavish-ness.

Produced as well but very briefly and discreetely under the Phase Linear brand (Model 7000 Series Two) which Pioneer had briefly acquired at some point before selling it back to Jensen. Very different and much less austere looks which you can see here, sans front-cover but truly lavish just the same.

I have located the LAVISH original CT-A1 japanese catalog since posting this page - stay tuned ! In the meantime, the "more" button below will tell everything in detail about the engineering of the CT-A1.